For the purpose of helping children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Joanne laid the foundation for Jigsaw Autism Services, which is a special autism behavioral and learning clinic. The specialty of Jigsaw and all its services lies in autism. Autism is a very complex disorder to which till this day there is no cause or cure known for the patients affected with it. Research suggests that behavior educational interventions are applied as soon as diagnosis, in the early age of children, gives the children best possible outcome. 
Joanne has broad knowledge and expertise in a range of evidence based best practice autism interventions specifically for teaching children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Joanne’s formal qualifications include Dip Teach, Grad Cert Incl. Ed, Grad Dip Incl. Ed, M. Ed (Autism) and is also accredited to conduct ADOS-2, autism screening, assessments and diagnosis. In addition, Joanne has now formed a relationship with the University of Newcastle to support current research on autism.
Not just equipped with qualifications, Joanne has also the practical experience that is needed for her field. She has been teaching in different educational settings for the past 25 years and has observed the spectrum of development from early childhood to young age, both in regular and specialist school settings.
Joanne Brearley regularly presents workshops. These sought after workshops are designed to improve knowledge and skills on how to teach children with autism, using current evidence based treatments. Joanne combines theory, practice and knowledge and is passionate about sharing this with others.
Using an innovative model of service provision which is based on the framework of a “Trans-disciplinary Approach”, Joanne believes that this approach offers a holistic approach to autism.
Combining the knowledge and skills from the professions of Psychology, Education, Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy.
Jigsaw supports your child to:
- develop skills to improve one’s social/emotional understanding
- develop and maintain friendships and relationships with others
- improve both verbal and non-verbal communication skills
- develop skill sets to improve self-help and independent living skills, as well as play and social skills
- develop skills in cognitive and learning development, such as reasoning and flexibility in thinking
- Improve self -regulation through understanding positive behavior support and management.
Parents report that their children absolutely enjoy their therapy sessions and Joanne has the skills and ability to help children with autism to engage in non-preferred learning experiences and improve their overall attention levels shared and joint attention, as well as improving their social communication and social emotional skills.
Put simply, Joanne knows how to teach and connect with children who have autism.
Joanne is hosting a two day workshop on the 29th and 30th of September.
Limited places available click here to find out how to book you spot.